Lydgate celebrates being a community
Reporter: Ken Bennett
Date published: 29 September 2021
Some of the afternoon tea team are pictured (left to right): Lesley Heyes, Dorothy Clark, Margaret Merkel, Molly Ellis and Lesley Sweeney
A stunning wall hanging, which took three patient years to complete, was the colourful centrepiece when Lydgate Community Association brought groups together to celebrate being a community.
The work by the dedicated Lydgate Stitchers, aptly titled “Lydgate woven in time”, was their most recent project and went on display in the newly-refurbished Lydgate Parish Hall the LCA charity is now running.
The wall hanging highlights Lydgate’s history, iconic buildings and activities, and is based on a painting by Jill Harrison.
“It is our largest and hardest work to date,” said Celia Gledsdale, who facilitates the group.
“We are delighted to see it in place in the newly-decorated hall.
"It is the perfect backdrop.”
St Anne’s church joined in with a fundraising stall selling crafts, many made of recycled materials in line with the Great Big Green Week Theme.
This built on the display by Paul Titmus and Alison Brittle from Saddleworth Hydro, who shared information about Climate Change and recycling.
The Love Lydgate group worked in the newly-fitted kitchen to create a sumptuous afternoon tea.
Margaret Merckel sold jams made from Lydgate fruit and the White Hart and JW Buckley’s bakers donated cakes and pastries.
The event got off to a resounding start with music from Lydgate Brass Band.
“It was a wonderful afternoon,” said Jennifer Greenwood, chair of the LCA and Love Lydgate.
“Bringing together all these talented and community spirited people in the Hall to celebrate our community was a privilege.
“It has been a tough year or so and trying to repair and redecorate the hall has been a struggle.
"We have had no income, but people have donated their time and skills and their money and have really made a difference.
“There is still much to do, but when you see people enjoying an event like this you know it’s worth every bit of effort.
"These people deserve the best!"
You can book the hall or donate to the project via the website or become a member of the LCA for just £12 a year (just £1 a month).
Go to: www.Lydgateparishhall.org.uk or contact Jennifer directly on: 01457 877935.
The Lydgate Stitchers meet every Wednesday, between 2-4 pm, and anyone is welcome.
See the Parish Hall website for more information.
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